Tombstone Safety Assessments - Urban Graveyard Monuments' Security Undergoes Examination
In the picturesque city of Bergisch Gladbach, nestled within North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, the cemetery administration is carrying out an annual inspection of gravestones across its five municipal cemeteries. The purpose of this inspection is to ensure the stability of gravestones, a responsibility shared by grave rights holders, who are obligated to keep the grave monuments on the cemetery stable at all times.
This year's inspection is being conducted by the cemetery administration under the Department of Urban Greenery, using a tilt tester to apply a test force of 300 Newton meters (approximately 30 kg) to one long side of each gravestone. If a gravestone does not move during the test, it is considered stable.
For gravestones that fail the test, a sticker will be affixed, indicating the need for securing. Dangerously unstable gravestones will be supported or laid down during the inspection to maintain public safety. After restoration, the cemetery administration requires a written stability certificate issued by the specialized company that carries out the repairs.
The inspection will take place from June 30 to approximately July 11, 2025. The aim is to maintain the safety and integrity of the gravestones on the cemeteries, ensuring they stand tall and strong, preserving the memories they hold for generations to come.
While specific regulations and procedures for Bergisch Gladbach can vary, they are typically based on state cemetery laws (Friedhofsgesetz) and local cemetery regulations (Friedhofssatzung). For exact regulations and procedures specific to Bergisch Gladbach, it is advisable to consult the Bergisch Gladbach city or cemetery administration directly.
In general, cemeteries across Germany conduct regular safety inspections of gravestones to prevent accidents. If gravestones are found to be unstable, they are often marked with warning signs, secured, temporarily removed, or laid flat until repairs or reinforcement are made by the family or a certified stonemason.
The city of Bergisch Gladbach takes pride in the maintenance and upkeep of its municipal cemeteries, ensuring they remain a tranquil and respectful place for visitors and the families of those interred within.
- In light of their commitment to health-and-wellness and environmental-science, the city of Bergisch Gladbach ensures the safety of all, even the deceased, by conducting annual gravestone inspections in its cemeteries.
- To maintain the tranquil environment and preserve the integrity of the cemetery, the city of Bergisch Gladbach not only focuses on the stability of gravestones but also encourages the practice of science, such as in urban greenery and environmental science, to conserve these historic sites.
